Winter parking rules in Layton to stay, but first-time fine lowered

The City Council is keeping its controversial winter parking restriction in place, but it is making a few modifications in its fines and enforcement.

The ordinance has been rewritten so that first-time offenders will receive only a $10 fine, instead of $32. However, the second offense fine still will be $32.The wintertime ordinance states that no vehicle shall be parked on the street from 1 to 6 a.m. during the months of December, January and February.

City Manager Alex Jensen said police officers now can exercise more judgment, based on weather conditions.

"They'll make a more liberal use of warnings," he said.

The revised ordinance also makes it clear that it's the owner of the vehicle, not the homeowner, who is responsible for the fine.

Jensen stressed the city was never out to make money from fines through the restrictions. The intent is to simply keep the roads clear for snow removal crews.

He said last year's trial use of the ordinance was a success, and it helped snowplow drivers considerably.